[Slingin Sammy 33]

Guard is the most pressing position. Kendall would be better for us in a back-up role at G/C. Mark Wahle being released by the Panthers would be a good fix for the next 2-3 years at LG. Thomas is Pro Bowl caliber when healthy, but he's in his 30s and coming of a major injury. The Steelers have a big, young Guard who is a restricted FA, Chris Kemoeatu, who could add depth and push for a starting spot. Depending on the tender offer the Steelers make we would only have to give up a 6th round pick to get him. This will all depend on what the Steelers do with Faneca. If Faneca is re-signed Kemoeatu would probably get a lower tender offer. If not the Steelers won't let him get away.

I don't think there are any solid FA Centers. We need to draft a Center with our 3rd or 5th pick IMO.

Tackle is also an issue with Jansen's injury and age of both him & Samuels. Heyer will be solid, but Shelton from Miami would be a good signing to give Heyer more time to develop and provide injury insurance. He may beat out Jansen and start.

I don't think the "sky is falling" with the OL, but the high cap $$s and injury issues to Thomas & Jansen are killing us. I'm more confident Thomas can be productive for most of the remaining life of his contract, but I'm not confident in Jansen returning to a high level of productivity. If we have another injury at a key OT spot we are in HUGE trouble if we don't address the OL.